MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

The office of Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) announced the winners of this year’s Congressional Art Competition Saturday, April 19, during a reception and awards program at Mark Arts in Wichita. Every year, the U.S. House of Representatives hosts an Artistic Discovery: Congressional Art Competition for High School Students, which takes place in each congressional district. First-place winners from all districts will have their artwork on display in the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. for about one year. Because of his support for young artists in the 4th Congressional District of Kansas, Rep. Estes also hosted an art exhibit in the district to display and celebrate the talent of all of the participants. The show is up until May 10. This year, the 4th Congressional District had 250 entries from 199 students representing 21 high schools in six different counties.
 
“The students who participated in this year’s art competition really impressed the judges, with a number of entries receiving recognition and many more that were also notable,” said Rep. Estes. “It will be great to see Melian’s pastel piece in the Capitol complex later this year. Melian received recognition last year for her 3rd place pastel, so it’s especially exciting to see her continue pursuing her passions and honing her skills. I’m grateful for the parents and teachers who are encouraging these students to enter and improve their craft.”
 
The winner, Melian Miller, a Wichita High School East student, received a cash prize courtesy of Marc and Erin Mason. Craig and Dalene Nelson also gave cash prizes to the second and third place winners. Twenty-eight other pieces received Honorable Mentions.
 
The jury consisted of Jim Clements, oil painter, and Steve Rasmussen, photographer.
 
A gallery of winning art is online at estes.house.gov/art.
 
2025 Congressional Art Competition – Final Results
1st Place – Melian Miller, “My Hero,” Pastel, Wichita High School East
2nd Place – Mei Castro, “My Background,” Colored Pencil, Wichita High School East
3rd Place – Allison Meraz, “Keeper of the Sun,” Ink, Wichita Northeast Magnet High School

Honorable Mentions:
Maric Archibald, “Boot and Pear,” Wichita Collegiate High School
Ray Becknell, “Ender’s Shin,” Wichita Northeast Magnet High School
Clara Busenitz, “Simple Pleasures,” Homeschool
Addison Cartmell, “Iris the Cat,” Flinthills High School
Noah Dietz, “Gentleman on his land,” Cheney High School
Phung Dinh, “Family Ties,” Wichita High School East
Brooklynn Gleason, “The Cusp of Fall,” Arkansas City High School
Brooklynn Gleason, “Free,” Arkansas City High School
Marijah Green, “Aunjel,” Wichita Heights High School
Grace Hammer, “Cold Front,” Udall High School
Jordyn Harris, “Mr. Frog,” Wichita Heights High School
Makenzie Jordan, “Utopia,” Berean Academy
Alisa Lin, “Self Portrait,” Wichita Collegiate High School
Madison Linder, “Flowers for Grandma,” Arkansas City High School
Makenna Meza, “Untitled,” South Haven High School
Melian Miller, “Sanguinity,” Wichita High School East
Macy Mitchell, “Mustang,” Berean Academy
Adrienne Mullins, “Stream in the Meadow,” Berean Academy
Joclynn Parmele, “Pointillism of Plateaus,” Oxford Jr/Sr High School
Belle Poor, “Hereford Bull,” Wichita High School East
Anessa Ramirez, “Tugging on Heart Strings,” Wichita High School North
Marley Shank, “Lydie in the Void,” Wichita High School Northwest
Ryder Telford, “The Weight of the Moment,” Wichita High School East
Adilyn Welden, “Angel Statues,” South Haven High School
Shelby Amanda White, “Tides at Dusk,” Eureka Jr/Sr High School
Gavin Williams, “Jeremiah Mathews,” Wichita Northeast Magnet High School
Hailey Williams, “Lucy,” Wichita High School Southeast
Cash Young, “Kansas Landscape,” Cheney High School

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative James E (Jim) Clyburn (6th District of South Carolina)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) released the following statement on Vice President J.D. Vance’s visit to South Carolina to deliver remarks on economic policy:

“South Carolinians will not be fooled by J.D. Vance’s rhetoric. The Trump Administration’s economic record in its first 100 days has been an abysmal failure, and a substantial course correction is needed to prevent grave harm to families and businesses. Trump’s exorbitant tariffs—imposed on countless essential products without any strategy—are increasing costs, jeopardizing retirement savings, threatening jobs, and putting small businesses at risk.  We are one of the most trade-dependent states in the nation, and are proud of our contributions to the global economy. South Carolina stands to be harmed disproportionately.  The Vice President would be better served by using his visit today to hear from South Carolinians from all walks of life—longshoremen, autoworkers, farmers, aircraft assemblers, hospitality employees, small business owners, and everyone else trying to make ends meet and urging the Administration to alter its approach before it is too late.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) today led a bipartisan group of 44 House members in sending a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin urging the Agency to uphold the rule designating the two most dangerous PFAS — PFOA and PFOS — as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA).

“After years of widespread PFAS contamination impacting communities across the country, EPA finalized a CERCLA rule last year that gives the agency stronger tools to investigate and clean up some of the most contaminated sites. Rolling back this progress would pose risks to both public health and the economy,” the lawmakers write. “If the CERCLA rule is rescinded, the financial burden of cleaning up PFAS-contaminated sites would increasingly fall on taxpayers. The Department of Defense (DOD) has already spent more than $2 billion addressing PFAS contamination from legacy uses like firefighting foam — a fraction of what will be required to remediate all impacted military sites. Delaying cleanup only allows contamination to spread further, making future efforts more costly and complex. The CERCLA rule helps ensure that the parties responsible for PFOA and PFOS pollution — including industrial actors who contributed to widespread contamination — bear the financial responsibility. Without this vital rule, communities across the country could be left footing the bill for cleanup, placing a significant burden on states, localities, and communities.”

“Further, PFAS are linked to an array of health harms, including testicular and kidney cancer, impaired fetal development, and infertility. These chemicals are extremely toxic to both the environment and the human body, and due to their strong chemical bonds, they can take years to break down,” the lawmakers continue. “Communities across the country have faced significant PFAS contamination, including in areas like Oscoda, MI, and Horsham, PA, where legacy use of firefighting foam at military sites have contaminated drinking water sources. Also, several communities across the country are living with significant contamination, and it is our duty as Members of Congress to address this crisis and protect our constituents.”

“EPA’s core mission is to protect human health and the environment. In order to fulfill that mission with respect to PFAS contamination — while also avoiding significant economic burdens on taxpayers — it is essential that the CERCLA rule remains in place,” the lawmakers conclude. “For decades, utilities and landfills have managed the treatment of hazardous substances to safeguard public health, and EPA has made clear it will exercise enforcement discretion, focusing on the worst actors responsible for serious PFOA and PFOS contamination. With nearly every American having some level of PFAS in their blood, rescinding this rule would fail to protect our communities and would undermine long-term economic progress. For these reasons, we urge you to uphold the CERCLA designations for PFOA and PFOS.”

Dingell has long led the fight against PFAS as the sponsor of the PFAS Action Act, which includes establishing a strong national drinking water standard. Additionally, Dingell has introduced the No PFAS in Cosmetics Act,  PFAS Alternatives Act, and Keep Food Containers Safe from PFAS Act. The designation of PFOS and PFOA – two of the most widely used and notoriously harmful PFAS substances – as hazardous substances by the EPA under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), is a key pillar of Dingell’s bipartisan PFAS Action Act.

View the full text of the letter here.

The letter is also signed by Representatives Jake Auchincloss, Nanette Barragán, Jack Bergman, Brendan Boyle, André Carson, Troy Carter, Steve Cohen, Diana DeGette, Christopher Deluzio, Cleo Fields, Brian Fitzpatrick, Laura Gillen, Josh Gottheimer, Chrissy Houlahan, Robin Kelly, Ro Khanna, Jen Kiggans, Mike Lawler, Seth Magaziner, Jennifer McClellan, Betty McCollum, Jim McGovern, Gwen Moore, Joe Neguse, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Chris Pappas, Brittany Pettersen, Chellie Pingree, Mike Quigley, Delia Ramirez, Deborah Ross, Pat Ryan, Linda Sánchez, Mary Gay Scanlon, Jan Schakowsky, Terri Sewell, Eric Sorensen, Darren Soto, Haley Stevens, Mark Takano, Shri Thanedar, Rashida Tlaib, Jill Tokuda, Juan Vargas, and Bonnie Watson Coleman.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

Washington, D.C. — This week, House Democrats’ Litigation and Rapid Response Task Force elevated their fight against the Trump Administration’s illegal attacks on the constitutional principle of birthright citizenship to the highest court in the land—filing an amicus brief for the  three birthright citizenship cases currently before the United States Supreme Court (Trump v. State of Washington, Trump v. CASA, Inc., and Trump v. State of New Jersey).

The brief was signed by 183 House Democrats and offers a compelling argument that President Trump’s week one order to strip the guarantee of citizenship provided to children born in America violates the Constitution and over a century of Supreme Court rulings, and laws enacted by Congress. The justices are set to hear oral arguments in the cases on May 15th, following the administration’s request that they lift a nationwide pause currently halting the implementation of this policy. 

The full brief is available HERE.  

The lawmakers first got involved when the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit considered the case of Trump v. State of Washington. Their latest endeavor is again being led by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, along with Litigation Task Force Co-Chairs Assistant Leader Joe Neguse and Ranking Member Jamie Raskin; Representatives Bennie Thompson, Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Committee, and Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement; as well as Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chair Yvette Clarke, Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Chair Adriano Espaillat, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) Chair Grace Meng, and Congressional Jewish Caucus (CJC) Co-Chairs Jerry Nadler and Brad Schneider.

See what they had to say below: 

“Donald Trump and Elon Musk are taking a chainsaw to the United States Constitution. Their disgraceful actions on birthright citizenship violate our nation’s laws and are an assault on the American way of life. House Democrats will continue to push back aggressively against them in the courts, in Congress and in our communities. The Supreme Court of the United States must stand on the side of the Constitution and reject this outrageous effort. I am thankful for the leadership of Rep. Raskin, Rep. Thompson, Rep. Jayapal, Rep. Clarke, Rep. Espaillat, Rep. Meng, Rep. Nadler, Rep. Schneider and Assistant Leader Neguse of the Litigation Working Group and Rapid Response Task Force in standing up for the rule of law,” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

“The first sentence of the 14th Amendment overthrew the Dred Scott decision and replaced racial citizenship with birthright citizenship. For more than a century and a half, the Supreme Court has upheld the plain meaning of the 14th Amendment and Congress has codified it. Four district judges, two Republican appointed and two Democratic appointees, rejected and enjoined Donald Trump’s blatantly unconstitutional order. We will all uphold and defend the Constitution against Donald Trump,” said Ranking Member Jamie Raskin. 

“President Trump’s executive order on birthright citizenship is unconstitutional, and as our amicus brief makes clear, House Democrats will continue to vindicate our constitution,” said Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse. 

“We will not allow the Trump administration to redefine what it is to be an American just to fit their extreme anti-immigrant beliefs. Under the Constitution, people born here are United States citizens – no matter who they are, what they look like, or where their families came from. Americans reject what Trump is attempting to do, and the Supreme Court must too,” said Ranking Member Bennie Thompson.

“Birthright citizenship is a core piece of our Constitution. Ending it through executive order is simply unconstitutional and a dangerous overreach of executive power,” said Ranking Member Pramila Jayapal. “All persons born on U.S. soil are U.S. citizens, that is what our Constitution dictates and is something President Trump cannot undo by waving a pen. As the first immigrant to serve as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, I am proud to be co-leading on this amicus brief to stand up for the immigration laws of this country.”

“Birthright citizenship is enshrined in our Constitution and has been affirmed by the Supreme Court numerous times — including in the landmark United States v. Wong Kim Ark decision. No matter what President Trump says or does, he cannot unilaterally overrule the law of the land by signing a piece of paper. As Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I join my colleagues in standing up for American values and against this unconstitutional executive overreach,” said CAPAC Chair Grace Meng.

“Birthright citizenship is a moral imperative in the United States because of its origins. It’s about our collective recovery from the evils of slavery, yes, but it’s also about equal opportunity for every American born in this country,” said CHC Chair Adriano Espaillat. “This brief reminds the Supreme Court of the historical weight of the 14th amendment and of the very real costs that would be imposed by additional legal requirements on all growing families by a spurious reinterpretation of this keystone amendment.”

“For more than a century, a cornerstone of our law is that those born on U.S. soil are American citizens. President Trump’s executive order to nullify birthright citizenship is in clear violation of the Fourteenth Amendment and is further evidence that extremist Republicans more concerned with dividing our country, not lower the cost of living, or improving economic conditions for hardworking Americans. President Trump has absolutely no authority to unilaterally write American citizens out of the Constitution, and any challenge to that notion is utterly fanciful. As Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, I am proud to join my colleagues in making clear that we will not stand down against President Trump and extremist Republicans’ lawless and xenophobic attacks,” said CBC Chair Yvette Clarke.

“Donald Trump is not a king. He cannot dismiss a century and a half of legal and judicial precedent that affirms the plain language of the Fourteenth Amendment of our Constitution with the swipe of a pen. Our Constitution clearly says if you are born here, you are a citizen. I’m hopeful that our highest court will follow the precedent set by its predecessors and send a clear message to the President that his flagrant, illegal overreach will be stopped,” said CJC Co-Chair Brad Schneider.

“Donald Trump’s divisive and xenophobic policies seek to divide and distract us,” said CJC Co-Chair Jerry Nadler. “We are dealing with a President who believes he is not just above the law, but above the U.S. Constitution.  The 14th Amendment is clear that persons born in the United States are U.S. citizens. And yet, President Trump feels compelled to single-handedly change what has been universally understood about the law since the Amendment was adopted in 1868.  All Americans should be disturbed by Trump’s assertion that he can unilaterally change the Constitution at will to suit his purposes.  This represents an assault on our democracy, and we cannot stand idly by and allow the President to disregard fundamental pillars of the Constitution. That is why I am proud as the Congressional Jewish Caucus Co-chair to join my colleagues in leading this effort.”

For more information on House Democrats efforts to protect Americans against the unlawful actions of the Trump Administration, visit litigationandresponse.house.gov. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)

Evidence points to a startling lack of enforcement of Wikipedia’s most basic rules and editorial safeguards. Given the immense influence that Wikipedia articles have over our online and real life global conversations, far more editorial responsibility and transparency is needed, immediately.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

The United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced tax relief for individuals and businesses in parts of Virginia affected by the severe February winter storms. 

Affected individuals in businesses will have until November 3, 2025, to file their tax returns. Ninth District localities which qualified for tax relief include:

– Counties: Bedford, Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Craig, Dickenson, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise and Wythe 

– Cities: Bristol

U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

“After the February winter storms, I sought to help deliver tax relief to the impacted Southwest Virginia communities. After weeks of advocacy and extensive talks, I am glad that we reached this milestone. Today’s announcement is significant help for Southwest Virginia, but I will continue to advocate for access to more recovery services.”

BACKGROUND

On February 10, 2025, severe winter storms hit Southwest Virginia.

Following the storms, Rep. Griffith visited sites in Buchanan County, Dickenson County and Tazewell County to tour storm damage.

On February 17, 2025, Rep. Griffith co-led a letter with U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner requesting President Donald Trump approve Governor Youngkin’s request for an expedited Major Disaster Declaration.

President Trump’s Administration approved Virginia’s request in April. 

According to an IRS press release, the Nov. 3, 2025, deadline applies to individual income tax returns and payments normally due on April 15, 2025. The Nov. 3 deadline also applies to 2024 contributions to IRAs and health savings accounts for eligible taxpayers. This relief also applies to the estimated tax payments normally due on April 15, June 16, and Sept. 15, 2025. Penalties on payroll and excise tax deposits due on or after Feb. 10, 2025, and before Feb. 25, 2025, will be abated as long as the tax deposits were made by Feb 25, 2025.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

Headline: Newhouse Supports U.S. Department of Education’s OSPI Investigaton

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement on the United States Department of Education’s investigation into the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. 

“I commend the U.S Department of Education for initiating this investigation as we work to restore common sense and fairness in Washington classrooms and athletics. The state of Washington is actively ignoring an executive order and threatening federal funds to schools in the process. OSPI must be held accountable for their attack on parental rights.” 

The U.S. Department of Education announced the first-ever joint investigation under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. The investigation into OSPI is for allegedly forcing gender ideology polices on school districts, contrary to the aforementioned federal laws.

Rep. Newhouse elevated numerous cases of potential violations from Washington’s Fourth District to the White House that supported the Department of Education’s grounds for an investigation.  

Read the announcement by the U.S. Department of Education here.  

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Trent Kelly (R-Miss)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Senator Todd Young (R-IN), Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8), and Representative Trent Kelly (R-MS-1) re-introduced the Ship-building and Harbor Infrastructure for Prosperity and Security (SHIPS) for America Act, comprehensive legislation to revitalize the United States shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries. Other cosponsors in the Senate include Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Senator John Fetterman (D-PA).

There are currently 80 U.S.-flagged vessels in international commerce while China has 5,500. The SHIPS for America Act aims to close this gap and boost the U.S. Merchant Marine by establishing national oversight and consistent funding for U.S. maritime policy, making U.S.-flagged vessels commercially competitive in international commerce by cutting red tape, rebuilding the U.S. shipyard industrial base, and expanding and strengthening mariner and shipyard worker recruitment, training, and retention.

“After decades of dangerously neglecting our shipbuilding industry, we’re finally doing something about it. The SHIPS for America Act is the most ambitious effort in a generation to revitalize the U.S. shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries and counter China’s dominance over the oceans,” said Senator Kelly, a U.S. Navy veteran and the first U.S. Merchant Marine Academy graduate to serve in Congress. “Building and staffing more U.S.-flagged ships will create good-paying American jobs, make our supply chains more resilient, lower costs, and strengthen our ability to resupply our military at times of war. We’ll keep working with our colleagues in Congress, this administration, and our partners in the industry to make our country safer and competitive by passing the SHIPS for America Act.”

“America has been a maritime nation since our founding, and seapower was a significant contributor to our rise to being the most powerful nation on earth. Unfortunately, the bottom line now is America needs more ships. Shipbuilding is a national security priority and a stopgap against foreign threats and coercion. Our bill will revitalize the U.S. maritime industry, grow our shipbuilding capacity, rebuild America’s shipyard industrial base, and support nationwide workforce development in this industry. This legislation is critical to our warfighting capabilities and keeping peace with China,” said Senator Young, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate.

“Strengthening America’s shipbuilding capacity and revitalizing our commercial maritime industry is critical to national security and economic resilience. Under President Trump’s leadership, we’re prioritizing these vital sectors. I’m proud to work alongside Senator Mark Kelly, Senator Todd Young, and Congressman John Garamendi to help safeguard our maritime future,” said Congressman Kelly.

“With China’s growing influence in the global maritime sector, the United States can no longer afford to overlook our maritime industries. The SHIPS for America Act will give our shipyards and merchant mariners the tools they need to rebuild America’s maritime industry and create good-paying American jobs,” said Congressman Garamendi. “I’m proud to lead this effort alongside Senator Kelly, Senator Young, and Representative Kelly to strengthen America’s national security, economic strength, and global leadership on the high seas.”

“Because of our vast geography, the maritime industry is uniquely vital to Alaska, with many of our coastal communities relying on a strong U.S.-flagged fleet for everything from everyday logistics, to commercial fishing and homeland defense. I am proud to cosponsor the SHIPS Act, which advances common-sense solutions that will invest in the workforce and revitalize our nation’s shipbuilding, increasing Alaska’s resilience and security,” said Senator Murkowski.

When it comes to maintaining our competitive edge against China, failure is not an option. The SHIPS for America Act will help the United States compete with China’s production of ships while creating new manufacturing jobs in shipyards across the nation,” said Senator Fetterman. “Not only will this strengthen our national security, but it’ll also grow our local economies and support working families right here in Pennsylvania. I’m proud to support this commonsense, bipartisan legislation that will help us build more ships in America and stand up to China.”

The SHIPS for America Act would:
• Coordinate U.S. maritime policy by establishing the position of Maritime Security Advisor within the White House, who would lead an interagency Maritime Security Board tasked with making whole-of-government strategic decisions for how to implement a National Maritime Strategy. The bill also establishes a Maritime Security Trust Fund that would reinvest duties and fees paid by the maritime industry into maritime security programs and infrastructure supporting maritime commerce.
• Establish a national goal of expanding the U.S.-flag international fleet by 250 ships in 10 years by creating the Strategic Commercial Fleet Program, which would facilitate the development of a fleet of commercially operated, U.S.-flagged, American crewed, and domestically built merchant vessels that can operate competitively in international commerce.
• Enhance the competitiveness of U.S.-flagged vessels in international commerce by establishing a Rulemaking Committee on Commercial Maritime Regulations and Standards to cut through the U.S. Coast Guard’s bureaucracy and red tape that limits the international competitiveness of U.S.-flagged vessels, modify duties to make cargo on U.S.-flagged vessels more competitive, requiring that government-funded cargo move aboard U.S.-flagged vessels, and requiring a portion of commercial goods imported from China to move aboard U.S.-flagged vessels starting in 2030.
• Expand the U.S. shipyard industrial base, for both military and commercial oceangoing vessels, by establishing a 25 percent investment tax credit for shipyard investments, transforming the Title XI Federal Ship Financing Program into a revolving fund, and establishing a Shipbuilding Financial Incentives program to support innovative approaches to domestic ship building and ship repair.
• Make historic investments in maritime workforce by supporting a Maritime Workforce Promotion and Recruitment Campaign, allowing mariners to retain their credentials through a newly established Merchant Marine Career Retention Program, investing in long-overdue infrastructure needs for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and supporting State Maritime Academies and Centers for Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education. The bill also makes long-overdue changes to streamline and modernize the U.S. Coast Guard’s Merchant Mariner Credentialing system.

The legislation will be introduced in two pieces in the Senate, the SHIPS for America Act and the Building SHIPS in America Act.

Background:
Since first introducing the SHIPS for America Act in December, the urgency to boost American shipbuilding has emerged as a priority of bipartisan consensus this year, particularly after the U.S. Trade Representative revealed its findings regarding China’s shipbuilding dominance and President Trump signed a shipbuilding executive order.

Sen. Kelly earned his B.S. degree in marine engineering and nautical science from the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) and later an M.S. degree in aeronautical engineering from the United States Naval Postgraduate School. He spent 25 years in the United States Navy as a pilot and is the first ever USMMA alumnus to serve in Congress. In 2023, he was elected chair of the USMMA Board of Visitors for the 118th Congress.

The following organizations have endorsed the SHIPS for America Act:
Keystone Shipping Company, American Shipbuilding Suppliers Association, Navy League, General Dynamics-NASSCO, American Waterway Operators, American Maritime Partnership, San Jacinto College, Oceantic Network, California State University Maritime Academy, Maine Maritime Academy, Senesco Marine, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Great Lakes Maritime Academy, USMMA Alumni Association and Foundation, American Maritime Officers, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots, Maritime Institute for Research and Industrial Development (MIRAID), International Propeller Club, Crowley, American Maritime Officers Service, The Pasha Group, Saltchuk, Tropical, Saltchuk Marine, Overseas Shipholding Group, Core Power, Govini, US Ocean, Small Shipyard Grant Coalition, The American Club, Transportation Institute, Blue Water Autonomy, American Bureau of Shipping, With Honor Action, Texas A&M Maritime Academy, National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA), American Iron and Steel Institute, Shipbuilders Council of America, Maritime Association of the Port of NY/NJ, United Steelworkers, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Matson, American Legion, Inc., Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (M.E.D.A.), Ocean Shipholdings, Inc, Offshore Marine Service Association (OMSA), Hanwha Philly Shipyard, Ports America, Seafarers International Union (SIU), U.S. Marine Management, AUVSI, Maritime Accelerator for Resilience, Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., Chamber of Shipping of America, National Association of Waterfront Employers (NAWE), Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), California Forever, International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), Alliance for American Manufacturing, Nucor, Steel Manufacturers Association, Blue Sky Maritime, New American Industrial Alliance, and Ship Operations and Marine Technical Support (SOMTS).

See what maritime leaders and stakeholders are saying about the SHIPS for America Act:
“The USA Maritime coalition supports the SHIPS for America Act and has been honored to work with Senators Kelly and Young and Congressmen Garamendi and Kelly as the bill has taken shape over the last two years. This bill represents the most comprehensive maritime policy initiative in more than half a century. Now, more than ever, the United States needs a strong, vibrant and growing Merchant Marine, capable of carrying a substantial portion of our foreign commerce and supporting our military in time of war. This initiative will ensure our country has the U.S.-Flag ships and American mariners needed to preserve, protect and defend America and our economic security. We look forward to continuing to work with Congress on this legislation,” said Brian W. Schoeneman, Chair, USA Maritime.

“The Shipbuilders Council of America commends Senator Kelly, Congressman Kelly, Senator Young, and Congressman Garamendi for their leadership in advancing the SHIPS for America Act. This legislation represents a significant step forward in strengthening the nation’s shipyard industrial base and establishing a comprehensive national maritime strategy. We are encouraged by its focus on bolstering American shipbuilding and ensuring a robust maritime sector capable of supporting our nation’s economic and national security. SCA is committed to continuing its engagement with these Congressional members and staff to refine and enhance the legislation, especially to better support our domestic ship repair industry, and we look forward to collaborating with policymakers to ensure the success of initiatives that secure the future of America’s shipyard industrial base and maritime workforce,” Matthew Paxton, President, Shipbuilders Council of America.

“The Navy League applauds the introduction of the SHIPS for America Act, a landmark legislative achievement that will comprehensively meet the needs of the U.S. merchant marine and bolster our shipbuilding industrial base. In today’s global threat environment, arguably the most perilous since the end of the Cold War, the United States must not only maintain the finest Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard on the seas, but also ensure a robust U.S.-flag merchant marine and a resilient shipbuilding industrial base. These elements are crucial for safeguarding our national and economic security in the event of large-scale military conflict. The SHIPS for America Act addresses these vital considerations and reaffirms that America is, and always will be, a maritime nation,” said Mike Stevens, CEO, Navy League.

“In any conflict with China, the outcome will hinge on our ability to project power across the Pacific via military sealift. The vast majority of the USN Strategic Sealift Officers are service-obligated graduates of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. We are deeply grateful to the sponsors of the SHIPS for America Act for recognizing that the USMMA campus at Kings Point, NY, built in the 1940s, urgently requires modernization to meet the demands of today’s national security threats,” said Captain James F. Tobin ’77, President/CEO, USMMA Alumni Association and Foundation.

“The Masters, Mates & Pilots strongly supports the SHIPS for America Act. This comprehensive and pragmatic maritime policy initiative will create and support jobs for American mariners, ensuring that our country has the maritime manpower needed to protect and enhance our nation’s economic and military security,” said Captain Don Josberger, International President, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots.

“The International Propeller Club is a steadfast advocate for the SHIPS for America Act. Our nation’s maritime industry is at a critical crossroads. This comprehensive maritime policy initiative will protect and enhance foreign policy, national security, and economic prosperity through increased U.S.-flag shipping capability and a revitalization of the domestic shipbuilding industry,” said Maria Conatser, International President, International Propeller Club.

“The Consortium of State Maritime Academies strongly supports the SHIPS for America Act, and is grateful for the bipartisan and bicameral leadership of Sen. Kelly, Sen. Young, Rep. Kelly, and Rep. Garamendi. The Consortium is united in our goal of working with our elected officials to support passage of this Act. Once enacted, the SHIPS Act will result in the United States Merchant Marine once again playing a leading role on the global stage, and the growth of the American maritime industry, a strategically important industry that provides thousands of well paid positions for the nation,” said the Consortium of State Maritime Academies.

“With Honor Action applauds Senator Mark Kelly, a Navy veteran, and Senator Todd Young, a Marine Corps veteran, for proposing real solutions to revitalize our nation’s shipbuilding base and create more job opportunities for Americans. As advocates for bipartisan, principled veteran leadership in Congress, we are pleased to see veterans who have chosen to continue to serve in Congress working together to address the critical issues facing our nation,” said Ryan Barcott, Co-Founder and CEO, With Honor.

“NDTA supports the strategic rebuilding of the United State’s fleet of ships who fly our flag. We must have a fleet of ocean-going vessels to protect the economic security of our nation. The SHIPS for America Act is truly a significant step in the right direction. Everyone in America needs to get educated about the importance of this bill. Rebuilding our U.S. fleet, our shipbuilding capacity, and workforce is a national imperative,” said William A. Brown, Vice Admiral, USN (Retired), President and CEO, NDTA The Association for Global Logistics and Transportation.

“U.S. economic and national security is inexorably tied to our nation’s shipbuilding capacity. Yet, for too long, China has dominated this critical sector, costing the U.S. tens of thousands of jobs across the shipbuilding supply chain and leaving us less secure as we rely on foreign-made vessels to meet our needs. Our union commends Sens. Kelly and Young and Reps. Garamendi and Kelly as they introduce the SHIPS for America Act. USW members stand ready to contribute their skills in manufacturing the plate steel, coatings, cable, glass, rubber, engines and countless other products we’ll need to revitalize American shipbuilding,” said Dave McCall, President, USW International.

“In the United States, we have a small number of shipyards focused on building Navy and Coast Guard ships, and a far smaller amount focused on building ocean-going vessels for commercial use. At the shipbuilding supplier level, we have many components that are provided by a manufacturer who may be one of the few, if not the sole, remaining means of production. As noted in the SHIPS Act, we must work with our industrial partners in NATO and Allied nations, but also invest in our American workforce and capabilities. The elements of Buy America legislation incorporated in this Bill are important to reaching this goal,” said Roger Camp, President and CEO, American Shipbuilding Suppliers Association.

“The reintroduction of the SHIPS for America Act marks as a vital step forward in strengthening our maritime supply chain and revitalizing the U.S. commercial shipbuilding industry. This legislation will help ensure that American goods move on American-built ships, operated by American mariners, supporting our economic security and national resilience. We appreciate the inclusion of legislation that would authorize terminal operators to establish tax free accounts for the purchase of cargo handling equipment knowing this will help our industry provide state-of-the-art services. Ports and terminal operators across the country are ready to meet the future with modern infrastructure and a highly skilled workforce – but we need a commercial fleet that can match that capability. The SHIPS for America Act helps close that gap and brings long-overdue investment to a sector critical to our competitiveness. NAWE applauds Senators Kelly and Young for their bipartisan leadership and looks forward to working alongside Congress to advance this important legislation,” said Carl Bentzel, President, National Association of Waterfront Employers (NAWE).

“Hanwha Philly Shipyard recognizes and commends U.S. Senators Mark Kelly and Todd Young, and Congressmen Trent Kelly and John Garamendi for their maritime policy leadership in reintroducing the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act. This bill offers tangible incentives to the domestic maritime industry with the goal of expanding the U.S. flag ocean-going fleet. It supports a major recapitalization of the shipbuilding infrastructure in the U.S., provides substantial incentives for the purchase of U.S.-built commercial vessels, and supports the national security and naval shipbuilding goals of the U.S. We see tremendous value in this legislation and believe it would have a long-term positive impact on Hanwha Philly Shipyard, other shipbuilders in the U.S. and Hanwha’s investments in America’s shipping industry and maritime industrial base,” said David Kim, CEO, Hanwha Philly Shipyard.

“For too long, the United States has allowed its maritime strength to decline. In an era of rising great-power competition, revitalizing our maritime capabilities and sending strong signals to the private sector is more essential than ever. The American Legion, on behalf of our 1.6 million dues-paying members, is proud to support this legislation,” said James A. LaCoursiere, Jr., National Commander, The American Legion.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Huffman Representing the 2nd District of California

April 30, 2025

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Jared Huffman (CA-02) re-introduced legislation to protect consumers from Health Care Sharing Ministries’ deceptive practices and expand access to accurate information about health coverage options. The Health Care Sharing Transparency Act would help ensure consumers receive clear and truthful information before enrolling in a health share plan. By holding Health Care Sharing Ministries – also known as Health Share plans – accountable for inaccurate or untimely disclosures and by ensuring providers offer clear information regarding care, this bill helps address some of the dangerous health care practices plaguing consumers across the country.

“Health Care Sharing Ministries prey on people in search of medical coverage, leading them to purchase inadequate medical coverage when they may need it most,” said Rep. Huffman. “Through deceptive marketing tactics and overt appeals to religion, certain providers lure consumers into purchasing plans that can leave patients without the care they need or lead them into deep medical debt. We need to combat these unethical tactics with serious federal action. My legislation would help protect consumers from Health Share plans’ predatory practices and ensure consumers have access to clear, accurate information about their health care options when making important decisions about coverage for themselves and their loved ones. As more and more Americans fall victim to misleading and unregulated Health Care Sharing Ministries, it’s more important than ever that we respond with proper reform.”

Health Share Caring Ministries are a limited form of health coverage that require members – who must share a common set of religious or ethical beliefs – to submit monthly payments to cover the qualified expenses of other members. Health Share plans do not have to comply with the consumer protections of the Affordable Care Act, provide limited benefits for their members, and do not guarantee payment for medical claims. Recent data shows Health Share plans deem only half of members’ health expenses eligible for reimbursement. They also exclude coverage altogether for services such as abortions, contraception, mental health, substance use disorders, chronic conditions, certain preexisting conditions, and even maternity care. 

With more for-profit administrators taking advantage of loopholes to market Health Share plans to broader audiences through deceptive practices, roughly 1.7 million Americans have now enrolled in one of these plans and are at serious risk of being denied necessary treatments and services.

The Health Share Transparency Act would:

• Empower consumers with the knowledge to distinguish between comprehensive, regulated health insurance products and Health Shares by requiring Health Shares to disclose clear information during the enrollment process. 

• Provide new data for regulators to assess the threat Health Shares pose to public health – including rates of service denials, enrollment, service area, average out of pocket expenses for Health Share Members, and the contents of complaints received by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). 

• Ensure health insurance brokers selling Health Shares inform consumers if they are eligible for better, more comprehensive forms of health coverage – including the ACA, Medicaid, or Medicare – and accurately describe the scope of benefits provided by Health Shares.

“We know that quality health insurance is essential for cancer patients. But too often, people – including cancer patients – enroll in a health sharing ministry, thinking they are covered, only to find out later that they can’t access the care they need. We applaud Rep. Huffman for introducing this important legislation which will help us learn more about health coverage that frequently leaves patients exposed to both physical and financial harm,” said Dr. Gwen Nichols, Executive Vice President & Chief Medical Officer at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

“FFRF Action Fund strongly supports the Health Share Transparency Act, and we thank Rep. Jared Huffman for reintroducing this vital legislation and making this bill a priority for the Congressional Freethought Caucus. Access to health care should never be conditioned on someone’s religious belief — yet healthcare sharing ministries routinely exploit religious exemptions to avoid accountability while misleading consumers. This bill is a crucial step toward protecting the public and upholding the separation of state and church,” said Annie Laurie Gaylor, President of FFRF Action Fund.

“Everyone deserves health care coverage that is comprehensive and transparent about its policies, and unfortunately health care sharing ministries can’t offer either,” said Fish Stark, Executive Director of the American Humanist Association. “Too often, health care sharing ministries’ deceptive practices leave American families in unanticipated medical debt with nowhere to turn for relief–all in the name of religion. This issue demands federal attention. We are proud to throw our full support behind the Health Share Transparency Act, and we applaud Congressman Huffman for his leadership in shepherding forward this critical legislation.”

The bill is endorsed by AiArthritis, AIDS Institute, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American Lung Association, American Humanist Association, Arthritis Foundation, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, CancerCare, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Center for Freethought Equality, Epilepsy Foundation of America, FFRF Action Fund, Hemophilia Federation of America, Immune Deficiency Foundation, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), National Coalition of Cancer Survivorship, National Health Council, National Patient Advocate Foundation, National Psoriasis Foundation, Secular Coalition for America, and Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Cosponsors include Representatives Jamie Raskin, Sean Casten, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Rashida Tlaib, Mark Pocan, Seth Moulton, Steve Cohen, Jan Schakowsky, and Maxwell Frost.

Full bill text can be found here.

A summary of the bill is available here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

Yesterday, Pressley Rallied With Colleagues at State Dept. to Demand Mahdawi’s Release and Due Process for All

Pressley Recently Met with Constituent Rümeysa Öztürk, Mahmoud Khalil at ICE Detention Centers in Louisiana

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) issued the following statement applauding the release of Mohsen Mahdawi, Columbia University student and lawful permanent resident who was detained on April 14 after his naturalization interview in Vermont. Yesterday, at a rally outside the State Department, Congresswoman Pressleyjoined Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)and their colleagues to call for Mahdawi’s immediate release and demand due process for all. Congresswoman Pressley recently met with constituent Rümeysa Öztürk and Mahmoud Khalil, two students who have been unlawfully detained by ICE and transported to Louisiana from their homes in retaliation for their protected speech.

Mahdawi, a Vermont permanent resident for the last ten years, was abruptly arrested earlier this month by masked, hooded ICE agents without being charged with a crime. In response to his arrest, Rep. Balint, Rep. Pressley, and 66 other House Democrats demanded to know the Administration’s alleged reason for his arrest from Secretaries Rubio and Noem and received no response. 

A full transcript of her remarks at yesterday’s rally is available below and video is available here.